Sermons

Introduction:

Is it possible for Jesus to be rude? Is it possible for Jesus to be wrong? Is it possible for Jesus to change his mind? Popular culture and Christian tradition has often portrayed Jesus as meek and mild, gentle and kind. Much of the time this is the case. But there are some times when Jesus is Mean and Wild as Mark Galli describes in his book.

We will hear a reading from the Gospel of Mark that offers a glimpse of Jesus that seems to go against our usual understanding. Jesus apparently insults a woman. Jesus apparently tells this woman that his ministry does not apply to people like her. Yet, it is the woman's response that apparently causes Jesus to change his mind and change his focus.

It is a fascinating story, and one that pastors tend to avoid because it is so difficult to explain. Given that Pastor Jim already talked about the racy book of the BIble called the Song of Songs last Sunday, why not try to tackle this as well. We'll explore these difficult questions, along with whether or not it's OK to challenge God.